H-1B1 visa

It is also distinct from the TN visa and associated status for residents of Canada and Mexico, which is associated with the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

Even for I-129 applicants, however, once the worker leaves the US to travel abroad, he/she must return home (Singapore or Chile) to a U.S. consulate for a new H-class visa stamp to re-enter the US.

Specifically, although the normal minimum requirement for an H-1B is a specialized bachelor's degree, the trade agreements with Chile and Singapore permit alternate credentials in certain professions:[4] As with the H-1B visa, it is necessary that there be a clear employer-employee relationship between the petitioning employer and the applicant.

Those who achieve the H-1B1 classification through a change of status via Form I-129 do not need to demonstrate non-immigrant intent - until they travel outside the U.S., after which they must return to their home country and apply for a H-class visa to re-enter the U.S.

Admission on a H-1B1 visa is for 18 months[citation needed], but the status can be renewed in yearly increments.

However, even as late as Fiscal Years 2011-2013 (by which time most H-1B visa approvals would correspond to classifications made after the introduction of the H-1B1):